"We talked about how this game would be a great opportunity to respond," Pioneers coach C.J. Marottolo said, "not only as athletes, but as human beings. How you respond to adversity in life, life and sport mirror each other."

Sacred Heart (1-20-1, 0-13-1 Atlantic Hockey) gave up a quick power-play goal in the first but had chances to tie it. RIT captain Chris Haltigin took a penalty to take away an open-net chance for Tye Lewis.